As mandated by the Oakland Diocese and in effort to be prepared for any type of emergency, St. Michael School will have an all-school emergency evacuation drill on Tuesday, November 24, 2015. If you opted-in for emergency texting, you will receive an automated message. If you have not yet opted in for this service or were not contacted by text, you can opt-in at any time by texting "Y" to 68453 For this emergency drill, all parents are asked to pick up their child/ren at the assigned time below.

This evacuation drill will begin promptly at 12:00 with the first pick-up at 12:15. Parents are asked to park on the perimeter of the school or in the church lot. Then, proceed on foot to the far side of the yard gate (by 1st grade) to pick up your child/ren.

You will be asked to sign your child/ren out as well as show identification. If your child will be going home with another family, please have a note to the office no later than Monday November 23rd.

Please note that on the completion of the drill, students not picked up will be checked in to Extended Care.

TIME Last Name Beginning with12:15 A, B

12:30 C, D

12:45 E, F, G

1:00 H, I, K

1:15 L, M

1:30 N, O, P, Q 1:45 R, T, V, W, Y

2:00 S

We thank you in advance for your cooperation. If you have any questions, please contact the school office.

SMS Faculty and Staff

8:30 Class Mass Schedule:

Thursday, Nov. 5: 7th grade

Friday, Nov. 6: 5th grade

Monday, Nov. 9: 2nd grade

Tuesday, Nov. 10: 7th grade

Thursday, Nov. 12: 1st grade

Friday, Nov. 13: 6th grade

Monday, Nov. 16: Kindergarten

Tuesday, Nov. 17: 5th grade

THANK YOU FROM THE 6TH GRADE FOR SUPPORTING THE COOKIE DOUGH SALE!! THE LAST DAY TO ORDER IS THIS FRIDAY. PROCEEDS GO TOWARD SCIENCE CAMP.

Wednesday, December 2: Christmas Play presented by TK, K, and 2 grades

Friday, December 4: 8th grade Snack Sale ($1-2 per item)

Tuesday, December 8: All-School Mass at
8:30-Feast of the Immaculate Conception

Friday, December 11: 8th grade Snack Sale ($1-2 per item)

Tuesday, December 15: Prayer Service presenting gifts for the needy with the Knights of Columbus

Friday, December 18: 6th grade Bake Sale at recess ($1 per item)

12:15 dismissal, NO EXTENDED CARE TODAY

December 19-
January 3: Christmas Break- See you on
Jan. 4, 2016 !!

Volunteer Needs

Last week was crazy leading up to Halloween. Thank you to the middle school parents for planning and overseeing the dance for the older students. Looks like it was fun. All the room parents also executed Halloween crafts, activities and treats for students to enjoy across the grades. Thank you for your efforts.

The Teachers’ Lounge looked amazing after the 7th Grade parents decorated and provided breakfast for all the teachers and staff. It looked Day of the Dead chic and spooktacular! Great energy and talent went into the display and amazing meal.

Thank you Colleen Hanley, Vanessa Gallo, Lynda Remley and Laura Welch for stuffing 225 envelopes last Wednesday with donation letters and info about this year’s Wine Tasting Event & Auction. Also big shout out to Beto Ramirez for getting us donated photo copies of all the handouts for the stuffing. We’re off to a great start!

Volunteer Roles We Need Filled:

Father-Daughter Dance—Help, help, help!

We need more help during the day to set up for the Father-Daughter Dance. If you have an hour to spare that day, contact Katya Perez at kaperez@cisco.com or Vanessa Gallo at vanessa@gallocommunications.com . The master plan is set and all tasks are ready to delegate! The committee has done a fabulous job of preparing decorations ahead of time. Help, help, help.

Silent Auction Coordinator Help—Vanessa Gallo needs Side Kick

The committee has sent out 225 donation letters to several businesses in our community, that talk about our upcoming event in February and how they can donate. We’ll be rolling out more details to the school on December 1, but we want to communicate to the community about donation first. Some businesses have already started to send us donations!

Co-Chair, Vanessa Gallo, needs help following up with businesses (in our mass mailing) in the next month or so to inquire about donations. All items will come to the school office until we get closer to the event and basket stuffing needs to take place. If you want a task that can be done on your own time and would enjoy “side-kicking” this with Vanessa Gallo, contact her at vanessa@gallocommunications.com. Since she oversees the volunteer coordination and is also busy co-chairing the event, it would be great to get extra hands. Note, many committee members will be following up with businesses as well. Since we all work full time, it would be nice to have one extra person who doesn’t mind calling people and picking up items as needed. No one is alone in this effort. We work as a team.

Marketing/Branding Team

Mrs. Douthit would like a small team of volunteers who are good at marketing skills to help with branding and marketing efforts for the school. Your efforts could potentially be done on your own time with some meetings to collaborate ideas and efforts. If you are skilled at tasks such as graphic design, social media strategy, writing marketing collateral and/or marketing strategy, contact Mary Beasley at mbeasley@csdo.org .

Drama Volunteers

We could use more volunteers to help with the Musical Play (3rd Grade). We already have two parents signed up for each play. Loretta Gomez, our drama coordinator is talented and will ensure an efficient and inspiring operation. The more volunteers we have for these performances, the smoother it will run for all involved. Contact Loretta at lgomez@csdo.org .

A master list of all volunteer slots is located on our school site www.smsliv.org under the Parent Links section. Go to “Volunteer Opportunities” and download the “Volunteer Signup Log 2015-16” file. There is a “Need” column on the master list. If you see a check mark in that column, then that event or task is filled and doesn’t need volunteers at this point. If you see “Open” in that column then we need more volunteers so sign up. If you need to make changes to your selection, contact me at vanessa@gallocommunications.com or call or text me at 925-963-7958 and I’ll make the changes to the master. Each Tuesday I will submit a revised version to Mary in the office to repost. You can contact me if you need to pick a brain about what to do or what works with your schedule.

As you execute your hours going forward, make sure you log in your time in the binder in the school office under your family name. If you are unable to get to the office during school time, let me know and I can fill in your time for you. You will need an initial from myself or the coordinator for the event or task you volunteered for to confirm your service. Thank you.

This is a fun event for girls of all ages to hang with their classmates, dance their hearts out and spend some quality time with dad, uncle or another special male person. $35 per couple; $10 for additional girls. Reserve your ticket now or buy at the door.

Ticket includes:

Photo

DJ & Dancing

Snacks

Dessert

Wear a cool tea party hat to earn one raffle ticket for the very popular cake walk! ($2 per walk)

Bring a friend and come enjoy yourself. Good time guaranteed. All proceeds support St. Michael School! Many non-artists who have tried this are excited about how well their finished product actually looks. You can bring your own image to recreate as an option.

Proceeds go to the SMS PTG to fund teacher materials and expenses. Register in school office. Pay cash or make check payable to “St. Michael School”. Contact Vanessa Gallo at
925-963-7958 or
vanessa@gallocommunications.com.

X X X X X

St. Michael School

Wednesday Newsletter

October 28, 2015

Pope Francis has blessed us with the gift of a Year of Mercy. May we seek the Lord’s grace, and pray that we are guided by the Corporal Works of Mercy in our service to the students we minister each day.

Feed the hungry

Give drink to the thirsty

Clothe the naked

Heal the sick

Welcome the stranger

Visit the imprisoned

Currently, we are collecting clothing, blankets, sleeping bags, and donations for the Livermore Homeless Shelter. I am most grateful to Mrs. Calhoun and the 8th grade for their leadership and stewardship! Please help!

8:30 Class Mass Schedule:

Thursday, Oct. 29: 1st grade

Monday, Nov. 2: 3rd grade

Tuesday, Nov. 3: TK

Wednesday, Nov. 4: 2nd grade

Thursday, Nov. 5: 7th grade

Friday, Nov. 6: 5th grade

Monday, Nov. 9: 2nd grade

Tuesday, Nov. 10: 7th grade

Have a safe Halloween and blessed All Saints and All Souls Days!

Sally Douthit

For your calendars...

Friday, October 30: Halloween Celebration, students come in appropriate costume (No weapons, gore or costumes that are difficult to move in)
12:15 dismissal

Last year's art show had incredible pieces of creativity. We are again accepting drawings, paintings, photography, poetry, song lyrics, architectural renderings, scientific ideas, handmade maps of future cities...whatever we can put flat on a wall! Bring art to Monique Makepeace, to your teachers or to the office. Thank you!

Volunteers Needed

There are many parents among us who sign up to do one task and end up helping with much more regardless of the 20 hours or what their initial role was to start with.
Tina Silvia is one of those helpers. She stepped up to help organize uniform exchange items and the effort is appreciated.

Alicia Sain spent hours laminating in the office yesterday and the tedious and laborious task makes things easier in the office. Thank you.

The 6th grade moms made and provided several cupcakes for sale yesterday to raise money for science camp. We all know how much parents do behind the scenes for their students. Thank you for your time and effort.

Volunteer Roles We Need Filled:

Father-Daughter Dance—Help, help, help!

We need more help during the day to set up for the Father-Daughter Dance. If you have an hour to spare that day, contact Katya Perez at kaperez@cisco.com or Vanessa Gallo at vanessa@gallocommunications.com . The master plan is set and all tasks are ready to delegate! The committee has done a fabulous job of preparing decorations ahead of time. Help, help, help.

Do you like to BAKE? The committee is looking for cake donations for the very popular cake walk. Contact kaperez@cisco.com if you want to donate. Deliver cake to hall by 5 pm on Friday, November 6.

Silent Auction Coordinator Help—Vanessa Gallo needs Side Kick

This week the committee is sending out 225 donation letters to several businesses in our community, that talk about our upcoming event in February and how they can donate. We’ll be rolling out more details to the school on December 1, but we want to communicate to the community about donation first.

The Co-Chair, Vanessa Gallo, needs help following up with businesses (in our mass mailing) in the next month or so to inquire about donations. Many will automatically send donations to the office and some items or gift cards may need to be picked up when ready. All items will come to the school office until we get closer to the event and basket stuffing needs to take place. If you want a task that can be done on your own time and would enjoy “side-kicking” this with Vanessa Gallo, contact her at vanessa@gallocommunications.com. Since she oversees the volunteer coordination and is also busy co-chairing the event, it would be great to get extra hands. Note, many committee members will be following up with businesses as well. Since we all work full time, it would be nice to have one extra person who doesn’t mind calling people and picking up items as needed. No one is alone in this effort. We work as a team.

Marketing/Branding Team

Mrs. Douthit would like a small team of volunteers who are good at marketing skills to help with branding and marketing efforts for the school. Your efforts could potentially be done on your own time with some meetings to collaborate ideas and efforts. If you are skilled at tasks such as graphic design, social media strategy, writing marketing collateral and/or marketing strategy, contact Mary Beasley at mbeasley@csdo.org .

Drama Volunteers

We could use more volunteers to help with the Musical Play (3rd Grade). We already have two parents signed up for each play. Loretta Gomez, our drama coordinator is talented and will ensure an efficient and inspiring operation. The more volunteers we have for these performances, the smoother it will run for all involved. Contact Loretta at lgomez@csdo.org .

A master list of all volunteer slots is located on our school site www.smsliv.org under the Parent Links section. Go to “Volunteer Opportunities” and download the “Volunteer Signup Log 2015-16” file. There is a “Need” column on the master list. If you see a check mark in that column, then that event or task is filled and doesn’t need volunteers at this point. If you see “Open” in that column then we need more volunteers so sign up. If you need to make changes to your selection, contact me at vanessa@gallocommunications.com or call or text me at 925-963-7958 and I’ll make the changes to the master. Each Tuesday I will submit a revised version to Mary in the office to repost. You can contact me if you need to pick a brain about what to do or what works with your schedule.

As you execute your hours going forward, make sure you log in your time in the binder in the school office under your family name. If you are unable to get to the office during school time, let me know and I can fill in your time for you. You will need an initial from myself or the coordinator for the event or task you volunteered for to confirm your service. Thank you.

PTG Corner

October 28, 2015

Get your tickets!

The Father-Daughter Dance—Mad Hatter Tea Party

November 6, 7:00-9:30 pm in the Hall.

This is a fun event for girls of all ages to hang with their classmates, dance their hearts out and spend some quality time with dad, uncle or another special male person. $30 per couple; $10 for additional girls.

After this Friday the 30th, tickets per couple will go up to $35. For planning purposes, to ensure we have plenty of goodies and treats at the event for all, we need as many as possible to sign up sooner than last minute. However, we are happy to take registrants at the door.

Ticket includes:

Photo

DJ & Dancing

Snacks

Dessert

Wear a cool tea party hat to earn one raffle ticket for the very popular cake walk! $2 per walk

Did you know?

PTG is not a social organization. We are the primary money generator for our school. We do three important things through our events and fundraising:

We support teachers through the resources and materials we fund.

We impact student learning through the purchases we make and support we give their teachers.

We build community through our events that partner us with businesses, the parish and outsiders.

Once we meet the necessary support we give to our deserving and hard-working teachers and staff, all money we raise goes to funding resources and needs that tuition doesn’t cover and raising all we can helps keep tuition as stable as possible. Every event or fundraiser we do this year will accumulate funds that will go in one school “pot”.

This year our big push is to update the playground. We made huge progress with the walkathon and need to continue to raise money to get all the parts of the playground revived. Out next big push is the 57th Annual Wine Tasting Gala & Auction.
100% of the revenue from this event will go to us and we have huge potential to bring in a lot for our school. We’ll roll out more details on December 1st. Stay tuned!

SMS Jackets - last chance to try on a sample size!

Sample sizes for the green SMS rain jacket will be in the office through the end of this week. Order now if you want to try on a sample jacket!

St. Michael School

Wednesday Newsletter

October 21, 2015

“Faith opens a “window” to the presence and working of the Spirit. It shows us that, like happiness, holiness is always tied to little gestures.

“Whoever gives you a cup of water in my name will not go unrewarded,” says Jesus (cf. Mk 9:41).Quotes from Pope Francis’ Apostolic Visit to the U.S. September 2015 Closing Mass of the 8th World Meeting of Families, Philadelphia

8:30 Class Mass Schedule:

Thursday, Oct. 22: TK/K

Friday, Oct. 23: 6th

Monday, Oct. 26: 3rd grade

Tuesday, Oct. 27: 5th grade

Wednesday, Oct. 28: 2nd grade

Thursday, Oct. 29: 1st grade

Thanks to the Student Leadership for the Rice Krispie Treat sale! $150 was raised and donated to the Livermore Homeless Shelter.

And thank you to Mrs. Young, Fr. Alfred and the 4th grade for a beautiful school mass yesterday!

Walkathon Results!!

You raised a total of $33,211 for our playground improvement project! Congratulations!!

After expenses, we will net approximately $30,000. Well done, SMS families!!!

In addition to the gift card raffle drawings, the following prizes were announced today at the special Flag Salute:

Top Raising Class gets free dress for the week of November 2 – 3rd grade

P.E. Teacher for the Day – Melanie Hom

Pizza Party with the Principal on Thursday, November 5at 12:00

We are all most grateful to Denisse Corral, Cathy Storjohann and the entire Walkathon Committee for a successful event and to the families and friends who so generously supported our Walkathon 2015!

I wanted to give a shout out to Susanne Gutierrez and her Small Motor Team and also to Monique Makepeace and her Art Team for providing enrichment to students in our younger grades. We appreciate their passion for what they do and for the level of effort and talent they continually offer as a perk to our students. If anyone is interested in volunteering in either program, contact Vanessa Gallo at vanessa@gallocommunications.com for more info.

Volunteer Roles We Need Filled:

Marketing/Branding Team

Mrs. Douthit would like a small team of volunteers who are good at marketing skills to help with branding and marketing efforts for the school. Your efforts could potentially be done on your own time with some meetings to collaborate ideas and efforts. If you are skilled at tasks such as graphic design, social media strategy, writing marketing collateral and/or marketing strategy, contact Mary Beasley at mbeasley@csdo.org .

Envelope Stuffing Party on Wednesday, Oct. 28 from 12-2 pm at the school (location to be determined)

The Wine Tasting Gala & Auction Committee needs help stuffing envelopes with donation letters and event flyers to be sent to local businesses. If you have time during the day and can help, contact Vanessa Gallo at vanessa@gallocommunications.com .

We need more help during the day to set up for the Father-Daughter Dance. If you have an hour to spare that day, contact Katya Perez at kaperez@cisco.com or Vanessa Gallo at vanessa@gallocommunications.com . The master plan is set and all tasks are ready to delegate! The committee has done a fabulous job of preparing decorations ahead of time. Help, help, help.

Drama Volunteers

We could use more volunteers to help with the Musical Play (3rd Grade). We already have two parents signed up for each play. Loretta Gomez, our drama coordinator, is talented and will ensure an efficient and inspiring operation. The more volunteers we have for these performances, the smoother it will run for all involved. Contact Loretta at lgomez@csdo.org .

A master list of all volunteer slots is located on our school site www.smsliv.org under the Parent Links section. Go to “Volunteer Opportunities” and download the “Volunteer Signup Log 2015-16” file. There is a “Need” column on the master list. If you see a check mark in that column, then that event or task is filled and doesn’t need volunteers at this point. If you see “Open” in that column then we need more volunteers so sign up. If you need to make changes to your selection, contact me at vanessa@gallocommunications.com or call or text me at 925-963-7958 and I’ll make the changes to the master. Each Tuesday I will submit a revised version to Mary in the office to repost. You can contact me if you need to pick a brain about what to do or what works with your schedule.

As you execute your hours going forward, make sure you log in your time in the binder in the school office under your family name. If you are unable to get to the office during school time, let me know and I can fill in your time for you. You will need an initial from myself or the coordinator for the event or task you volunteered for to confirm your service. Thank you.

PTG Corner

October 21, 2015

Get your tickets!

The Father-Daughter Dance—

Mad Hatter Tea Party

November 6, 7:00-9:30 pm in the Hall.

This is a fun event for girls of all ages to hang with their classmates, dance their hearts out and spend some quality time with dad, uncle or another special male person. $30 per couple; $10 for additional girls ($35 after if purchased after 10/30). Ticket includes:

Photo

DJ & Dancing

Snacks

Dessert

Wear a cool tea party hat to earn one raffle ticket for the very popular cake walk! ($2 per walk).

The Wine Tasting Gala & Auction Event is in the making—come to our next meeting and learn more about this exciting event!

We’ve been celebrating Catholic education for over 100 years and 100% of this event’s proceeds will go toward the school and our vision for an updated playground. We have a meeting Monday, October 26th, from 7-8 pm in the teacher’s lounge in the office. If you are interested in this event and want to learn more about it, stop by Monday evening. You are welcomed to join us. Contact Vanessa Gallo at vanessa@gallocommunications.com for questions or ideas.

Order your SMS Jacket!

St. Michael School windbreaker jackets from Bancroft Uniforms are now ready for order!

Order forms and sample jacket sizes are available in the School Office. Visit http://bancroft-uniforms.com for more information on the jackets and other school uniform items.

St. Michael School

Wednesday Newsletter

October 14, 2015

This month’s Gospel Values are Respect and Love. Our Faith Families joined to pray for loved ones who have passed in the tradition of Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead).

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Romans 12:10

8:30 Class Mass Schedule:

Thursday, Oct. 15: Kindergarten

Friday, Oct. 16: 2nd grade

Monday, Oct. 19: 1st grade

Tuesday, Oct. 20: All School Mass at
8:30

Wednesday,
Oct. 21: 7th grade

Thursday, Oct. 22: TK/K

Friday, Oct. 23: 6th

Monday, Oct. 26: 3rd grade

Tuesday, Oct. 27: 5th grade

Wednesday, Oct. 28: 2nd grade

You are always welcome to join our classes at the daily mass!

Walkathon Update:

The costs are not completely finalized, but I am very comfortable reporting that we exceeded our goal of raising $20,000. This money goes directly to the Playground Improvement Fund and has taken us roughly 33% toward our overall goal of rebuilding a play structure, slurry, repair & striping of the playground and installing basketball, volleyball, tetherball areas. We will continue this year’s fundraising at the Wine Auction in February. Thank you all!

Class/Group Fundraising:

The 8th grade will resume its Snack Sale at recess on Fridays. Proceeds offset the cost of graduation.

Oct. 16: Nachos $2 each

The Student Leadership Council is sponsoring a Snack Sale benefitting the Livermore Homeless Shelter.

Monday, Oct. 19: Rice Krispie Treats for $1 each.

Additionally, the 6th grade is raising money for Science Camp. If you care to support this effort, it would be greatly appreciated:

Thank you Anne-Mari Seberger (daughter in Kindergarten) for volunteering to do yard duty! This is an area we always need help in. If anyone would like to help during lunch and your day schedule has flexibility, contact Mary Beasley at mbeasley@csdo.org.

Volunteer Roles We Need Filled:

Uniform Exchange Helper

Liz Cobarruviaz has helped us, along with Bridget Tomasello, keep the uniform items in the office neat and orderly. Liz’ schedule has changed and now has to move on from this task. Thank you Liz for what you’ve done so far! And thank you Bridget for continuing to do this task.

We need one person who can help Bridget throughout the year to monitor the uniform items in the office and make sure they stay organized and in the correct bins. This way, it will be quick and efficient for students to retrieve items they may need in a pinch. If you have questions about this task, contact Mary Beasley at mbeasley@csdo.org.

Father-Daughter Dance Help

Volunteers to donate homemade or store bought cupcakes or cakes: The very popular cake walk during the Father-Daughter Dance is an activity the girls really enjoy and we are doing it again this year. The committee is looking for volunteers to donate goodies. Cakes that serve 8-12 or 6 to 12-count boxes of cupcakes are ideal. The event is Friday, November 6, so donations should be delivered to the Hall that day no later than 6 p.m. Contact Katya Perez at kaperez@cisco.com.

Set-up Décor in the Hall between 8 am and 4 pm, Friday November 6th:

We have a great team in place to work this event. Our challenge is getting helpers during the day because of busy work schedules. If you have a flexible day schedule, we need all the help we can get to decorate the Hall for the dance. The chairs, Katya Perez, Shevin Okronglis, and Leslie Dabney, have everything organized with plenty of tasks ready to go that day, so it’s just a matter of getting the bodies present to execute the very cool plan! You don’t have to work the event that night. We just need help during the day. Contact Katya Perez at kaperez@cisco.com or Vanessa Gallo at vanessa@gallocommunications.com.

A master list of all volunteer slots is located on our school site www.smsliv.org under the Parent Links section. Go to “Volunteer Opportunities” and download the “Volunteer Signup Log 2015-16” file. There is a “Need” column on the master list. If you see a check mark in that column, then that event or task is filled and doesn’t need volunteers at this point. If you see “Open” in that column then we need more volunteers so sign up. If you need to make changes to your selection, contact me at vanessa@gallocommunications.com or call or text me at 925-963-7958 and I’ll make the changes to the master. Each Tuesday I will submit a revised version to Mary in the office to repost. You can contact me if you need to pick a brain about what to do or what works with your schedule.

As you execute your hours going forward, make sure you log in your time in the binder in the school office under your family name. If you are unable to get to the office during school time, let me know and I can fill in your time for you. You will need an initial from myself or the coordinator for the event or task you volunteered for to confirm your service. Thank you.

PTG Corner

October 14, 2015

Get your tickets!

The Father-Daughter Dance—Mad Hatter Tea Party

November 6, 7:00-9:30 pm in the Hall.

This is a fun event for girls of all ages to hang with their classmates, dance their hearts out and spend some quality time with dad, uncle or another special male person. $30 per couple; $10 for additional girls ($35 if purchased after 10/30). Ticket includes:

Photo

DJ & Dancing

Snacks

Dessert

Wear a cool tea party hat to earn one raffle ticket for the very popular cake walk! ($2 per walk).

We are all still very excited to hear about the final winners of the Walkathon prizes!

Family and friends of St. Michael School are still turning in donations so it’s not too late for your students to jump in the lead.Here’s a reminder for the great prizes students can win:

Top raising class: Free Dress for a week!!!!!!!!!!!

Top raising student: PE teacher for a day

For every $50 raised, students will be entered in drawing to win various prizes including gift cards

The strength to hand down a virtuous tradition and memory of your actions. Leaving a LEGACY is not just for old people. We can leave a LEGACY too. Your support and participation in last week’s Walkathon begins a legacy of outdoor play at SMS that will serve our students for the next 20-30 years. THANK YOU!

If you have final pledges, they are due tomorrow. I am happy to report that it looks like we will surpass our goal of $20,000. At Flag Salute tomorrow we will award free dress to the class that brought in the most donations this week. Next Friday, the 23rd, we will announce PE teacher for a day, the students who will have Pizza Lunch with the Principal, the top raising class who receives free dress for a week, as well as our prize drawings.

8:30 Class Mass Schedule:Thursday, Oct. 8: 8th grade

Tuesday, Oct. 13th: 8th grade

Wednesday, Oct. 14: 3rd grade

Thursday, Oct. 15: Kindergarten

Friday, Oct. 16: 2nd grade

Monday, Oct. 19: 1st grade

Please keep Teri DiNino and her family in your prayers. Mrs. DiNino’s mother went to heaven this week.

Next week is conference week.

Grades 3-8 expect the students to attend with their parents.

How to Prepare for a Parent/Teacher Conference:

Parent/Teacher Conferences are a time to learn more about your child's performance during the academic year. Communication between you and your child's teacher is the key to your child's success. Here are some suggestions to help you prepare for a successful conference:

TALK WITH YOUR CHILD:

Ask your child what they like best about the class; what they like least.

Ask them in what areas they feel most successful and what areas are causing them problems.

Ask your child what they would like you to discuss with their teacher.

THINK ABOUT QUESTIONS YOU WOULD LIKE TO ASK YOUR CHILD'S TEACHER:

Is my child reading on grade level? If not, why?

How much reading should my child be doing at home?

Is my child able to do the math that you expect for a student in this grade? If not, why?

Is my child completing the homework that he/she is assigned?

Does my child get along well with his classmates?

Is my child respectful in class?

CONFERENCE TIME:

Be on time - you want to have plenty of time to discuss your child.

Be open-minded. Your child's teacher wants him/her to succeed just like you.

"Women & Spirit: Catholic Sisters in California" at the Museum on Main, 603 Main Street, Pleasanton. This show runs until
October 13. Tuesday-
Saturday10:00-4:00.
Sunday1:00-4:00. Admission is free. The Dominican Sisters of San Rafael contributed to the show.

Last Chance to be in the Directory!

The St. Michael School Telephone Directory is almost ready to be printed! Please fill out
this form and return it to the school office by
TOMORROW, Thursday, October 8. We want to get the directories assembled, printed, and distributed as soon as possible, so please turn in your forms ASAP! Hard copies of the form are available in the School Office. Contact us if you have any questions.

Volunteers Needed

This past week we had two amazing events! Thank you Denisse Corral, Cathy Storjohann and your team for executing a successful Walkathon
on Friday. The children had a blast and we excitedly await Mrs. Douthit’s announcement on how much we raised toward our new playground effort.

Also a big thank you to Michelle and Andy Knuth for running the Country Dance last Saturday. We appreciate their endless positive energy and hard work. The event was a fun family affair.

After publicizing the need for a Choice Lunch Facilitator on Thursdays for several weeks now, Grace Santos has volunteered to do that role! Thanks for stepping up. Liz Muir will continue to oversee Wednesdays and has been a huge help in the interim for Thursdays. Thank you.

Volunteer Roles We Need Filled:

Drama Volunteers

We could use more volunteers to help with The Thanksgiving Feast (TK, 1st and 5th), the Christmas Play (K, 2nd), and the Musical Play (3rd). We already have two parents signed up for each play. Loretta Gomez, our drama coordinator is talented and will ensure an efficient and inspiring operation. The more volunteers we have for these performances, the smoother it will run for all involved. Contact Loretta at lgomez@csdo.org .

A master list of all volunteer slots is located on our school site www.smsliv.org under the Parent Links section. Go to “Volunteer Opportunities” and download the “Volunteer Signup Log 2015-16” file. There is a “Need” column on the master list. If you see a check mark in that column, then that event or task is filled and doesn’t need volunteers at this point. If you see “Open” in that column then we need more volunteers so sign up. If you need to make changes to your selection, contact me at vanessa@gallocommunications.com or call or text me at 925-963-7958 and I’ll make the changes to the master. Each Tuesday I will submit a revised version to Mary in the office to repost. You can contact me if you need to pick a brain about what to do or what works with your schedule.

As you execute your hours going forward, make sure you log in your time in the binder in the school office under your family name. If you are unable to get to the office during school time, let me know and I can fill in your time for you. You will need an initial from myself or the coordinator for the event or task you volunteered for to confirm your service. Thank you.

The Walkathon last Friday was a smash. Thank you to Denisse Corral and Cathy Storjohann and their team for making sure it flew like an eagle. We are very excited to hear about the final winners of the Walkathon prizes! Family and friends of St. Michael School are still turning in donations so it’s not too late for your students to jump in the lead.

Here’s a reminder for the great prizes students can win:

Top raising class: Free Dress for a week!!!!!!!!!!!

Top raising student: PE teacher for a day

For every $50 raised, students will be entered in drawing to win various prizes including gift cards

Raise $300 or more and win Pizza lunch with the principal

Save the Date! The Father-Daughter Dance is coming up very soon! November 6, 7:00-9:30 pm in the Hall.

This is a fun event for girls of all ages to hang with their classmates, dance their hearts out and spend some quality time with dad, uncle or another special male person. Stay tuned for more details. You won’t want your daughter to miss out!

St. Michael School

Wednesday Newsletter

September 30, 2015

Just Walk It!

Keep your eyes on the stars, and your feet on the ground.

-Theodore Roosevelt

Thanks to the many families who continue to support the Walkathon! So far we are almost halfway to our goal. Congratulations to the 2nd grade who raised the most money last week. Which class will win this Monday’s free dress??

The 8th grade will be selling snacks & drinks for $1 each during the Walkathon to raise graduation funds. Your support is much appreciated!

Come out and walk with us Friday from 1:00-3:00! Thanks again to Denisse Corral and Cathy Storjohann for their clever ideas and hours of preparation!

I hope you can make it for Coffee with the Principal Friday morning. We have staff members from Carondelet and DeLaSalle High Schools joining us to talk about secondary Catholic education.

All of a sudden, it’s cool and damp! Students may need jackets now. Bancroft Uniformwill be here next week (2:30-4:30) if you need one of those great embroidered jackets or PE sweatpants.

I hope to see you all Friday afternoon and again Saturday night here at the Country Western Dinner Dance! Thank you to the Knuth family and the many volunteers who make this such a fun night!

The St. Michael School Telephone Directory is coming back! Please fill out
this form and return it to the school office by
Wednesday, October 7. We want to get the directories assembled, printed, and distributed as soon as possible, so please turn in your forms by the deadline! Contact the School Office if you have any questions.

Volunteers Needed!

Volunteer Needs

Thank you Johnel Cerruti and Melanie Tanyag for helping out with the kindergarteners at Lunch and during Yard Duty. It takes a village to run a smooth ship!

If anyone would like to help out during lunch time or in the classroom, contact Mary Beasley in the office: mbeasley@csdo.org .

Volunteer Roles We Need Filled:

A Person Who has Publisher Software Who is able to Make Our Program for the Wine Tasting Gala & Auction Feb. 20th

The event Co-Chairs, Vanessa Gallo and Colleen Hanley, will gather, edit and finalize the content for the Program. We need a volunteer who has Publisher and is able to put the program master together. For questions about this task, contact Vanessa Gallo at 925-963-7958 or vanessa@gallocommunications.com .

A Person Who is Skilled at Videography and Video Production

We would like to create a short video of children at St. Michael School talking about our new playground initiative and what it would mean to them to see it come to fruition. We’d like to initially use this video as a short display during our Wine Tasting Gala & Auction event February 20th. We need a skilled video person who would be willing to develop this for us. Mrs. Douthit, Auction Co-Chairs and Mary Beasely will collaborate with the volunteer on content and logistics. Contact Vanessa Gallo for questions at 925-963-7958 or vanessa@gallocommunications.com .

A Silent Auction Coordinator for the Wine Tasting Gala & Auction

We have a fabulous team in place for this big event (our largest grossing fundraiser). Co-Chair Vanessa Gallo will oversee the assembly and wrapping of all silent auction baskets and items the week before the event, and we have a volunteer to make tags and prepare them the week of the event. We also have different people on our team who are asking for donations. We need one person who will be the contact person for all silent auction donations that come in and who will follow up with businesses who commit to donating items to make sure they come in by the due date (Feb. 5th). We have a donation letter, list of previous donors, and other support ready for this role. We just need another person to help us run smoothly. This role can easily be done on your own time and is ideal for an organized person who is good with details and enjoys contacting businesses and other donors. Contact Vanessa Gallo at vanessa@gallocommunications.com if you have questions about this job.

Choice Lunch Helper on Wednesdays or Thursdays

Liz Muir (4th grade son, Liam) is currently doing Wednesdays and Thursdays, 11:30-1:00 pm and would prefer to just do one day. If someone could do Wednesdays, she could do Thursdays. Or, if anyone is still able to do Thursdays, Liz will stay on Wednesdays. We need you. Contact Mary Beasley for questions about this role: mbeasley@csdo.org .

Drama Volunteers

We could use more volunteers to help with The Thanksgiving Feast (TK, 1st and 5th), the Christmas Play (K, 2nd), and the Musical Play (3rd). We already have two parents signed up for each play. Loretta Gomez, our drama coordinator is talented and will ensure an efficient and inspiring operation. The more volunteers we have for these performances, the smoother it will run for all involved. Contact Loretta at lgomez@csdo.org .

A master list of all volunteer slots is located on our school site www.smsliv.org under the Parent Links section. Go to “Volunteer Opportunities” and download the “Volunteer Signup Log 2015-16” file. There is a “Need” column on the master list. If you see a check mark in that column, then that event or task is filled and doesn’t need volunteers at this point. If you see “Open” in that column then we need more volunteers so sign up. If you need to make changes to your selection, contact me at vanessa@gallocommunications.com or call or text me at 925-963-7958 and I’ll make the changes to the master. Each Tuesday I will submit a revised version to Mary in the office to repost. You can contact me if you need to pick a brain about what to do or what works with your schedule.

As you execute your hours going forward, make sure you log in your time in the binder in the school office under your family name. If you are unable to get to the office during school time, let me know and I can fill in your time for you. You will need an initial from myself or the coordinator for the event or task you volunteered for to confirm your service. Thank you.

PTG Corner

September 30, 2015

It’s not too late to do one last push to raise money for this Friday’s Walkathon to help us get our new playground!

Here’s a reminder for the great prizes students can win:

Top raising class: Free Dress for a week!!!!!!!!!!!

Top raising student: PE teacher for a day

For every $50 raised, students will be entered in drawing to win various prizes including gift cards

Raise $300 or more and win Pizza lunch with the principal

We’re one step closer to redoing our playground.

If you are looking for a fun family outing this weekend, get you tickets at school at pick up time for the Country Western Dinner Dance this Saturday, October 3.

Thank you to all the families who have supported the Walkathon so far. We are 25% toward our goal of $20,000.

Last week the Kindergarten won free dress for being the highest fundraisers. Which class will win free dress this week? Come to Flag Salute on Friday and see!

One word about safety….

At morning drop off, PLEASE DON’T MAKE A U-TURN IN THE MIDDLE OF THE BLOCK. I don’t want you to have an accident or to be ticketed. If you child needs assistance getting out of the car, please park on the other streets and walk him/her to the black gates. Let’s keep everyone safe and moving efficiently!

Keep
Pope Francis in your prayers as he continues his historic visit to the U.S. this week. If you would like to find out more about his tour, go to:
www.popefrancistour.com or #WalkwithFrancis

New school emergency messenger system:

The diocese has implemented a new service that will allow us to deliver emergency information via text messaging. The service is powered by
SchoolMessenger. In order to receive emergency communications via text, you must "opt-in" to receive these messages. This evening you will receive an SMS text message asking if you are willing to receive texts from the Diocese of Oakland Catholic Schools. Although this system is shared by all Diocesan schools, you will only receive messages from our school, and only when it is an emergency announcement. You may opt-out of this service at any time by texting STOP to 68453 . Following this initial opt-in message, you may opt-in at any time by texting "Y" to 68453.

Thank you to the
Contreras family who hosted an amazing party last weekend which benefitted our school. We hope this event will be offered again to parents at this year’s upcoming Wine Auction in February!

Blessings to all,

Sally Douthit

For your calendars...

Friday, September 25: 4th grade to Indian Walk

Sunday, September 27: Feast of St. Michael procession,
11:00 mass

Wednesday, September 30: 3rd grade to Ravenswood

Thursday, October 1: Chess Club begins...don't forget to turn in your sign-up form!

The St. Michael School Telephone Directory is coming back! Please fill out
this form and return it to the school office by
Wednesday, October 7. We want to get the directories assembled, printed, and distributed as soon as possible, so please turn in your forms by the deadline! Contact the School Office if you have any questions.

Sign up for Children's Choir!

All children
Grades K-5 are invited to join the St. Michael Children's Choir! The Children's Choir sings at the
9:30 mass on the first Sunday of every month, and for Christmas, Easter, and other special celebrations. Rehearsals take place Mondays from 4-5 in the church, beginning on September 27.

All children
Grades 6 and older are invited to join Lifeteen Choir & Band! Rehearsals take place Sundays at
4:30pm in the church, and the Choir sings at the
6:00pm mass. Singers and instrumentalists are welcome!

For more information, please contact
JaNet Hancock, Director of Music Ministries:

Thank you Will and Lorraine Manley for the fabulous work you do with our library. The students have been going to the library during lunch and they love it! We are lucky to have the Manleys to make sure our students have a valuable library experience.

Also thank you to the 6th grade parents for manning the Pancake breakfast fundraiser and to the 8th grade moms, Amanda Quintana and Phyllis Rucker, for selling nachos at snack time to raise money for graduation. From what I heard, the nachos were a hit!

Naomi Calaway has stepped up to help Shevin Okronglis as our 2nd grade room parents. Thanks for doing this.

We still need some parents to sign up for some roles:

Choice Lunch Helper on Wednesdays or Thursdays

Liz Muir (4th grade son, Liam) is currently doing Wednesdays and Thursdays, 11:30-1:00 pm and would prefer to just do one day. If someone could do Wednesdays, she could do Thursdays. Or, if anyone is still able to do Thursdays, Liz will stay on Wednesdays. We need you. Contact Mary Beasley for questions about this role: mbeasley@csdo.org .

Drama Volunteers

We could use more volunteers to help with The Thanksgiving Feast (TK, 1st and 5th), the Christmas Play (K, 2nd), and the Musical Play (3rd). We already have two parents signed up for each play. Loretta Gomez, our drama coordinator is talented and will ensure an efficient and inspiring operation. The more volunteers we have for these performances, the smoother it will run for all involved. Contact Loretta at lgomez@csdo.org .

A master list of all volunteer slots is located on our school site www.smsliv.org under the Parent Links section. Go to “Volunteer Opportunities” and download the “Volunteer Signup Log 2015-16” file. There is a “Need” column on the master list. If you see a check mark in that column, then that event or task is filled and doesn’t need volunteers at this point. If you see “Open” in that column then we need more volunteers so sign up. If you need to make changes to your selection, contact me at vanessa@gallocommunications.com or call or text me at 925-963-7958 and I’ll make the changes to the master. Each Tuesday I will submit a revised version to Mary in the office to repost. You can contact me if you need to pick a brain about what to do or what works with your schedule.

As you execute your hours going forward, make sure you log in your time in the binder in the school office under your family name. If you are unable to get to the office during school time, let me know and I can fill in your time for you. You will need an initial from myself or the coordinator for the event or task you volunteered for to confirm your service. Thank you.

PTG Corner - September 23, 2015

Paint Night at Winemakers Pourhouse & Beer Garden was a blast. We had about 15 people painting and the time was relaxing and fun. Stay tuned for the next Paint Night Date.

Keep getting sponsors for the Walkathon! We still have a week to raise money to help us get our new playground!

Here’s a reminder for the great prizes students can win:

Top raising class: Free Dress for a week!!!!!!!!!!!

Top raising student: PE teacher for a day

For every $50 raised, students will be entered in drawing to win various prizes including gift cards

Raise $300 or more and win Pizza lunch with the principal

You will be enlightened to see how many family and friends are willing to donate to the Walkathon, especially since your child isn’t asking for magazine, cookie dough or wrapping paper purchases. The money your children raise doesn’t have to come from your pocket. A small effort in facilitation and positive energy will move mountains here. We need your help!

Saint Michael School

Wednesday Newsletter

September 16, 2015

“If you want to walk fast walk alone,

if you want to walk far, walk together!”

-African Proverb

Today is the last day to order your child’s
Walkathon t-shirt! If you want to be a sponsor on the back of the t-shirt ($100), today is the last day for that. If you would like to sponsor a banner ($200) on the perimeter fence to cheer the kids on, the deadline is
September 29. All Walkathon money will go toward the Playground Improvement Project. The class that has raised the most money so far will receive Free Dress
on Monday. The announcement will be made at Flag Salute
this Friday. It’s not too late to get involved! Thank you for your enthusiasm and your support!

The
Chess Club is returning to Extended Care on
October 1st. They will meet every
Thursday at
3:10. Chess is an amazing way to foster logical thinking and actually enhances almost every curricular subject. Classes are open to all students, TK-8. See the flyer that went home with your student to sign up.

If you would like to help the victims of the
Butte & Valley fires, see below for drop-offs today and
tomorrow:

Big thank you to Alicia Sain for her help with laminating in the office. Tina Silvia has been a big help in the office this past week as well. Ms. Beasley appreciates it and we all indirectly benefit when things are efficiently running.

We must thank Rubriah Martinez for her extra help in the office. She’s a life saver many times!

We still need some parents to sign up for some roles…Drum roll please………………………………………….

Yes, the same areas need help:

2nd Grade Room Parent

Thank you Shevin Okronglis for volunteering to be room parent for 2nd grade; we would like two parents total. Contact our head room parent, Carole Ebel, if you want to be Shevin’s sidekick: artsebella@gmail.com .

Choice Lunch Facilitator

Thursdays, 11:30-1:00 pm. Thank you Liz Muir for agreeing to help on Thursdays in the interim until we can identify a more permanent volunteer who can cover this day for Choice Lunch. Contact Mary Beasley for questions about this role: mbeasley@csdo.org .

Drama Volunteers

We could use more volunteers to help with The Thanksgiving Feast (TK, 1st and 5th), the Christmas Play (K, 2nd), and the Musical Play (3rd). We already have two parents signed up for each play. Loretta Gomez, our drama coordinator is talented and will ensure an efficient and inspiring operation. The more volunteers we have for these performances, the smoother it will run for all involved. Contact Loretta at lgomez@csdo.org .

A master list of all volunteer slots is located on our school site www.smsliv.org under the Parent Links section. Go to “Volunteer Opportunities” and download the “Volunteer Signup Log 2015-16” file. There is a “Need” column on the master list. If you see a check mark in that column, then that event or task is filled and doesn’t need volunteers at this point. If you see “Open” in that column then we need more volunteers so sign up. If you need to make changes to your selection, contact me at vanessa@gallocommunications.com or call or text me at 925-963-7958 and I’ll make the changes to the master. Each Tuesday I will submit a revised version to Mary in the office to repost. You can contact me if you need to pick a brain about what to do or what works with your schedule.

As you execute your hours going forward, make sure you log in your time in the binder in the school office under your family name. If you are unable to get to the office during school time, let me know and I can fill in your time for you. You will need an initial from myself or the coordinator for the event or task you volunteered for to confirm your service. Thank you.

We still have 6 seats for the Paint Night at the Winemakers Pourhouse & Beer Garden!

Tuesday, September 22 from 6-9 pm

$40 per person (20 guests max); Fee includes:

Instruction by artist and St. Michael Parent, Melinda Salerno

Paint supplies

Canvas

Choice of pre-selected famous art pieces to re-create

A glass of wine or beer.

Bring a friend and come enjoy yourself. Good time guaranteed. All proceeds support St. Michael School! Many non-artists who have tried this are excited about how well their finished product actually looks. Proceeds go to the SMS PTG to fund teacher materials and expenses. Register in school office. Pay cash or make check payable to “St. Michael School”. Contact Vanessa Gallo at 925-963-7958 or vanessa@gallocommunications.com .

What did we do at our first meeting of the year last night?

Thank you Rhovy Lyn Antonio for coming to our PTG meeting last night. We enjoyed having a new parent join us (Isabella is in Kindergarten). It is also very cool that your husband was a student at St. Michael School! You cannot beat the community family we have at this school.

We also set goals for the year as to how much money we’d like to raise from all our different fundraisers, of which the two biggest events are the Walkathon and the Wine Tasting Gala & Auction.

Remember last year, your donations and fundraising participation with the Walkathon, Wine Tasting Gala & Auction, The Tabletop Luncheon and other events amazingly enabled us to:

Complete our technology program goal in one school year!

Purhase new math program

Purchase new projectors

Our goal this year is $80K and we are confident we can raise the money! We need to update our playground this school year and the majority of this goal is slated for that purpose.

The first big step is getting full participation in our upcoming Walkathon. We still have 2 WEEKS for students to raise money and there are some great prizes students can win:

Top raising class: Free Dress for a week!!!!!!!!!!!

Top raising student: PE teacher for a day

For every $50 raised, students will be entered in drawing to win various prizes including gift cards

Raise $80 and receive walkathon t-shirt

Raise $120 and receive drawstring bag and t-shirt

Raise $175 and receive a sweatshirt, bag and t-shirt

Raise $300 or more and win Pizza lunch with the principal

You will be enlightened to see how many family and friends are willing to donate to the Walkathon, especially since your child isn’t asking for magazine, cookie dough or wrapping paper purchases. The money your children raise doesn’t have to come from your pocket. A small effort in facilitation and positive energy will move mountains here. We need your help!

Saint Michael School

Wednesday Newsletter

September 9, 2015

Tomorrow’s flowers are in the seeds of today.

We pray together…

Join us tomorrow at
8:30am as we celebrate the first
All-School Mass and the commissioning of our Student Leadership Team. Feel free to mix in with the students and teachers. Because of the extreme heat this week, students may wear navy shorts and polo shirts to mass. No PE clothes, please.

We work hard…

Teachers are completing the benchmark
STAR assessments in reading & math for students in grades 2-8. These quick online tests are adaptive to student responses. When a child marks the correct answer, the test adjusts the complexity of the next question. When a student marks an incorrect answer, the test adjusts the next question to a more basic level. The Chromebooks have been a Godsend for all this online testing! STAR assessments are administered 4 times each year. They provide valuable information on class and individual curricular needs as well as recommendations and even lessons for teachers to implement.

Next week, we will be administering the
Iowa Test of Basic Skills to grades 2-8. These assessments take several hours out of every day next week and are nationally normed. Please have your children arrive at school on time with a good, healthy breakfast in their bellies. We take the IOWAs annually. Parents will receive reports from both sets of assessments.

We play fairly and frequently…

Last night, members of the PTG and School Advisory Boards met with a representative from Ross Recreational Equipment. The need and desire for our students to have an improved play environment is powerful. The
Walkathon on October 2 will be devoted to Step 1 of the plan: a new play structure. The cost is approximately $30,000 for this one step. The next level involves a slurry and painting of the existing playground with new basketball, volleyball, tetherball courts and various 4-square, hopscotch games. We have intentionally not asked you to buy magazines, giftwrap, cookie dough or other items that net the school $.40 on every dollar. We do ask you to get involved and support this year’s Walkathon fundraiser with your donations, corporate matching, and health & fitness related sponsorships.

I ask a lot from all of you because I believe your children deserve the very best.

Our 2nd Annual Walkathon is coming up October 2nd and we are excited for this amazing event. We raised many thousands of dollars last year to build our technology program and this year we will use funds to update our school playground, a much needed revision for our students.

We are looking for sponsors who would be interested in having their business name or family name printed on the back of this year’s event t-shirts. The sponsorship amount is $100 per business or family. Our Tax ID # is 20-4410279. We are also offering a $200 sponsorship that will get your name on our event t-shirt and on a banner that will be hung around the perimeter fences of our school during the walk.

In order to ensure our t-shirts and banners get printed and delivered in time for the event, we need all sponsorship money turned in by September 16th to the school office. Complete this form with your payment: Walkathon Sponsor Application.

Volunteers Needed!

Volunteer Needs

Big thank you to Liz Cobarruviaz and Bridget Tomasello for organizing the uniform exchange items. Everything looks great! Tuesday there were several third graders not in uniform for mass and we got through the effort to get them dressed very quickly because everything was so neat and organized.

We still need some parents to sign up for some roles:

2nd Grade Room Parent

Thank you Shevin Okronglis for volunteering to be room parent for 2nd grade; we would like two parents total. Contact our head room parent, Carole Ebel, if you want to be Shevin’s sidekick: artsebella@gmail.com.

Choice Lunch Facilitator

Thursdays, 11:30-1:00 pm. Thank you Liz Muir for agreeing to help on Thursdays in the interim until we can identify a more permanent volunteer who can cover this day for Choice Lunch. Contact Mary Beasley for questions about this role: mbeasley@csdo.org.

Drama Volunteers

We could use more volunteers to help with The Thanksgiving Feast (TK, 1st and 5th), the Christmas Play (K, 2nd), and the Musical Play (3rd). We already have two parents signed up for each play. Loretta Gomez, our drama coordinator is talented and will ensure an efficient and inspiring operation. The more volunteers we have for these performances, the smoother it will run for all involved. Contact Loretta at lgomez@csdo.org.

2 Coordinators for the Mother-Son Movie Night, April 29

We put this on the calendar so that we’d have the Hall reserved. This is a new event that has never been done. The vision was that we play a movie in the Hall that would appeal to a range of boys 5 and older. Moms and sons bring blankets and chairs to create a “picnic” style setting and the committee would provide pizza or other refreshments for guests to enjoy, along with games made available for those who decide not to watch the movie. We have a good group of volunteers in place for this event already. We need two parents to plan the logistics and organize the team in place. PTG will provide support. This event is open to ideas. This event can even be more of a game board night where mother-son couples group up with others to play different games. Format ideas welcomed. The two who decide to coordinate can set the pace and style for this going forward. Contact me at vanessa@gallocommunications.com if you want to pick my brain.

A master list of all volunteer slots is located on our school site www.smsliv.org under the Parent Links section. Go to “Volunteer Opportunities” and download the “Volunteer Signup Log 2015-16” file. There is a “Need” column on the master list. If you see a check mark in that column, then that event or task is filled and doesn’t need volunteers at this point. If you see “Open” in that column then we need more volunteers so sign up. If you need to make changes to your selection, contact me at vanessa@gallocommunications.com or call or text me at 925-963-7958 and I’ll make the changes to the master. Each Tuesday I will submit a revised version to Mary in the office to repost. You can contact me if you need to pick a brain about what to do or what works with your schedule.

As you execute your hours going forward, make sure you log in your time in the binder in the school office under your family name. If you are unable to get to the office during school time, let me know and I can fill in your time for you. You will need an initial from myself or the coordinator for the event or task you volunteered for to confirm your service. Thank you.

We have 10 signed up so far. Room still open. Bring a friend and come enjoy yourself. Good time guaranteed. All proceeds support St. Michael School! Many non-artists who have tried this are excited about how well their finished product actually looks.

Fee includes instruction by artist and St. Michael Parent, Melinda Salerno, paint supplies, canvas and choice of pre-selected famous art pieces to re-create, and a glass of wine or beer. Proceeds go to the SMS PTG to fund teacher materials and expenses. Register in school office. Pay cash or make check payable to “St. Michael School”. Contact Vanessa Gallo at
vanessa@gallocommunications.com or
925-963-7958 for questions.

Our first meeting of the year is September 15, 7-8:30 pm

If you are curious about PTG and would like to sit in on a meeting, you are welcome to sit in on September 15th in Room 21 upstairs from the school office from
7-8:30 pm. If you would like to attend, contact Vanessa Gallo at
925-963-7958 or
vanessa@gallocommunications.com and we’ll make sure to have extra handouts. We are excited about this new school year and look forward to working with all of you during the many events to come.

To participate, you just need a ShopWithScrip® account, and you must be able to login to place online orders. Sign up for PrestoPay ASAP, if you haven't already, so you can receive your ScripNow eCards and add funds using ReloadNow in minutes, or use Reload to add funds overnight!

And don't forget you can buy Scrip at any time from the box in the School Office. We have a handful of the most popular cards in stock, including Safeway, Lucky, Raley's, Target, and Walmart.

Saint Michael School

Work hard ~ Play fair ~ Pray often!

Wednesday Newsletter

September 2, 2015

"I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.” John 15:5

This scripture passage, along with our Gospel Values of Community and Hospitality were explored today at our first
Faith Family gathering. The 8th grade “parents” led an activity that included a name game and an activity where every student in the family created one grape in a cluster that made up their family. The leaders explained that these grape clusters show that we belong together in Christ. After listening to the Gospel reading “Jesus is the Real Vine”, students discussed what it feels like to be included in a community, what it feels like to be left out or excluded and brainstormed ways we can be sure all SMS students feel like they belong. We will return to this theme, along with our chosen Gospel Values, for the next 6 weeks. The lesson of “I love you as the Father loves me” will be reinforced in classes, on the play yard and when helpful in social interactions.

I want to extend my hospitality to all of you this Friday at
Coffee with the Principal. I would like to discuss the uniform policy, violation forms, and Free Dress Friday rewards, as well as how we can partner, parents and staff, to raise self-reliant children. My topics will not monopolize the morning because I truly want to hear from you. So come for coffee and a snack and bring your questions, comments, celebrations, and concerns.

Sunday, September 13 is
Ministries Sunday here at St. Michael Parish. I will be hosting a table for the school and would love company. We will hand out brochures, SMS lanyards, candy and SMS water bottles (while they last) to interested parties and answer any questions people have about the school. I welcome your representation!

Please note October 2nd’s
Walkathon information sheet attached. Please understand that our goal is for every SMS student to raise enough money to receive a Walkathon t-shirt. Students will be permitted to wear these t-shirts, like the Centennial t-shirts of several years ago, for their PE uniform. We will walk to raise money to improve our play areas: a new play structure, regulation basketball courts, tether ball game areas and a resurfaced, newly painted play ground- designed for kids, not cars!

Thank you to Katya Perez, Leslie Dabney and Shevin Okronglis for teaming up to coordinate the Father-Daughter Dance in November. We appreciate your initiative and help.

Big shout out to Katya Perez and Amy Laymon for assisting with picture day yesterday to ensure it ran smoothly.

We still need some parents to sign up for some roles:

2nd Grade Room Parent

We have one parent for this already; we would like two parents total. Contact our head room parent, Carole Ebel, if you want to understand the job better,artsebella@gmail.com.

Choice Lunch Facilitator

Thursdays, 11:30-1:00 pm, this person helps to set out the lunch and monitor process. Contact Mary Beasley for questions about this role, mbeasley@csdo.org.

2 Coordinators for the Mother-Son Movie Night, April 29

We put this on the calendar so that we’d have the Hall reserved. This is a new event that has never been done. The vision was that we play a movie in the Hall that would appeal to a range of boys 5 and older. Moms and sons bring blankets and chairs to create a “picnic” style setting and the committee would provide pizza or other refreshments for guests to enjoy, along with games made available for those who decide not to watch the movie. We have a good group of volunteers in place for this event already. We need two parents to plan the logistics and organize the team in place. PTG will provide support. This event is open to ideas. The two who decide to coordinate can set the pace and style for this going forward. Contact me at vanessa@gallocommunications.com if you want to pick my brain.

Drama Volunteers

We could use more volunteers to help with The Thanksgiving Feast (TK, 1st and 5th), the Christmas Play (K, 2nd), and the Musical Play (3rd). We already have two parents signed up for each play. Loretta Gomez, our drama coordinator is talented and will ensure an efficient and inspiring operation. The more volunteers we have for these performances, the smoother it will run for all involved. Contact Loretta atlgomez@csdo.org.

A master list of all volunteer slots is located on our school site www.smsliv.org under the Parent Links section. Go to “Volunteer Opportunities” and download the “Volunteer Signup Log 2015-16” file. There is a “Need” column on the master list. If you see a check mark in that column, then that event or task is filled and doesn’t need volunteers at this point. If you see “Open” in that column then we need more volunteers so sign up. If you need to make changes to your selection, contact me at vanessa@gallocommunications.com or call or text me at 925-963-7958 and I’ll make the changes to the master. EachTuesday I will submit a revised version to Mary in the office to repost. You can contact me if you need to pick a brain about what to do or what works with your schedule.

As you execute your hours going forward, make sure you log in your time in the binder in the school office under your family name. If you are unable to get to the office during school time, let me know and I can fill in your time for you. You will need an initial from myself or the coordinator for the event or task you volunteered for to confirm your service. Thank you.

This is an amazingly fun activity and you don’t have to be an artist to have a good time. Many non-artists who have tried this are excited about how well their finished product actually looks. Signup with a friend and have a well-deserved good time together! Fee includes instruction by artist and St. Michael Parent, Melinda Salerno, paint supplies, canvas and choice of pre-selected famous art pieces to re-create, and a glass of wine or beer. Proceeds go to the SMS PTG to fund teacher materials and expenses. Register in school office. Pay cash or make check payable to “St. Michael School”. Contact Vanessa Gallo at
vanessa@gallocommunications.com or
925-963-7958 for questions.

Our first meeting of the year is September 15, 7-8:30 pm

If you are curious about PTG and would like to sit in on a meeting, you are welcome to sit in on September 15th in Room 21 upstairs from the school office from 7-8:30 pm. If you would like to attend, contact Vanessa Gallo at
925-963-7958 or
vanessa@gallocommunications.com and we’ll make sure to have extra handouts. We are excited about this new school year and look forward to working with all of you during the many events to come. We wish everyone a fabulous 3-day weekend.